East Creek Site No. 5 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

East Creek Site No.


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Summary

5, located in Orwell, Vermont, is a state-regulated recreational dam built in 1962 by designers Haley & Ward. The dam, constructed primarily of earth and stone materials, stands at a height of 10 feet with a length of 1020 feet, creating a storage capacity of 150 acre-feet on Sanford Brook. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2014 indicated a poor state, emphasizing the need for maintenance and repairs to ensure its long-term safety and functionality.

The primary purpose of East Creek Site No. 5 is for recreation, providing opportunities for activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation in the surrounding area. The dam's location in Addison County, within the jurisdiction of the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), underscores the importance of managing water resources and climate impacts effectively. With regular state inspections and enforcement in place, the dam plays a crucial role in water management and flood control for the local community, highlighting the significance of sustainable infrastructure development in the face of changing environmental conditions.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to advocate for resilient infrastructure solutions, East Creek Site No. 5 serves as a reminder of the intersection between human activities and natural systems. The data points to a need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the dam's structural integrity and safety, while also recognizing the importance of balancing recreational benefits with environmental stewardship. By prioritizing sustainable practices and investing in the upkeep of critical infrastructure like East Creek Site No. 5, stakeholders can work towards a more resilient and climate-resilient future for water resources in Vermont and beyond.

Year Completed

1962

Dam Length

1020

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

SANFORD BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

20

Drainage Area

3.6

Nid Storage

150

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

10
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.